FAQ

What problems and issues can you help with?

I treat a very full range of life and relationship issues. If you have a problem that I do not often work with, I will help you find the right practitioner.

For most people, several issues are linked together and need to be explored. These can include long-term family/parent issues, relationship problems, marriage and divorce questions, past traumas or abuse you may have experienced, major life transitions, health challenges, addictions and career issues.

The result of dealing with any combination of these concerns is generally that people experience feelings of depression and anxiety - which tend to interfere with our work and relationships. Depression and anxiety take different forms depending on the person, as each person is unique. I can help you understand what form you are suffering and what can be done to find relief.



What will the first session be like?

You’ll find it's a very relaxed and comfortable conversation. You'll receive many new insights and get a solid sense of how I can help you. Don't worry - I will guide the conversation so you don't have to wonder what to say. Most clients feel energized, relieved and hopeful after the first session. First, I will ask some key questions and give you plenty of time to describe what you are going through. I’ll also want to know what made you seek out help, what your life is like lately, and get a general sense of your history. By looking at the whole picture, I'll be able to describe how our work will progress and what to expect.



What makes counseling so transformative?

There are two powerful keys to therapy that make it so transformative. The first factor is that you are receiving personal, empathic connection in a safe setting, with a professional who knows how to give you the space and time you need.

The second factor is the clinical perspective, counseling expertise and treatment planning that my training and experience provides.



How frequent are the sessions we will have?

Generally our sessions are once per week. As our work together proceeds, your needs may change and we can adjust the schedule to suit you. You are always free to choose what feels best for you.



How long will it take for me to feel better and solve my problems?

Even the act of reaching out to schedule a session brings new hope and confidence. After the first session, you will feel deeply heard and will have some new strategies to move forward with. As you can guess, the time depends on how deep the problem goes and how many issues you need to work on. For some people, a few sessions is enough to resolve a decision or question. For others, working together over a several months is necessary - and life-changing.

Almost all of my clients go from feeling somewhat stuck, and confused about the nature of their problems, to having an empowered sense of clarity, support and courage to move forward. I can assure you that I regularly get very positive results. I invite you to read the Testimonials at the bottom of the About page to learn more about client experiences.



Integrative, tailored approach.

Effective psychotherapy is both practical and profoundly transformative. It reduces pain while also integrating the self and renewing the soul. My practice is about fostering well-being and wisdom that you take with you for life.

As a Clinical Psychologist (PhD or PsyD) my expertise allows me to diagnose and treat most mental health problems. My integrative approach to counseling will help you see the underlying issues and make those key inner and outer changes that really improve your life.

 

Now for some jargon for those who like that stuff.

I am a psychodynamic therapist with a strong focus on the therapeutic relationship, healing trauma (with EMDR), and bringing consciousness to unconscious aspects. The focus of Psychodynamic therapy is enable personal wholeness, connection, and balance.

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On the cognitive and awareness side, my approach is strongly informed by Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Lastly, my relationship perspective is largely informed by the Gottman Institute.

Psychodynamic therapy.

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Attending to your deep self. Including your life history, family bonds, attachment style (anxious, avoidant, secure?), and basic sense of connection in life. ​If you have unresolved trauma, we can use EMDR sessions to process it, and I will advise a few healing practices for daily life.

Cognitive & Mindfulness.

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We will look at how you can relate with your habitual thoughts, feelings and actions in a more mindful, empowered way. Cultivating mindfulness means being more present to your self and your life. And being present is where love and happiness begin!

Relationships.

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Relationships are where everything shows up. I can help you assess the main challenges and opportunities for improving your relationships. This includes finding the balance between empathy and boundaries. I also have a system for assessing if a romantic relationship can last.